Among the various first-generation Corvettes produced, the updated cars from 1956 through 1962 struck a particularly strong chord with buyers for their styling and fast-rising performance. One-year-only styling cues for 1958 featured the debut of a quad-headlamp frontal treatment, louvered hood and twin chrome strips on the rear decklid, consistent with the era’s styling trends. Providing substance to match its style, the Corvette also delivered heightened passenger comfort and improved safety with frame-mounted bumpers. Performance also took quantum leaps forward, thanks to the relentless development work led by Zora Arkus-Duntov and his Corvette engineering team. The 1958 Corvette’s 283 CI V-8 was now available in five power levels, ranging from 230 to 290 HP in naturally aspirated and Rochester fuel-injected forms. Out of the 9,168 Corvettes built for 1958, just 1,511 of them were equipped with the Rochester fuel-injected engine. Two versions were produced: 504 with the milder 250 HP unit and 1,007 with the hotter 290 HP engine, the main difference being the latter’s high-lift camshaft. Equipped with the Fuelie engine, the Corvette delivered race-winning performance that remains breathtaking today. A choice of Powerglide 2-speed automatic or 4-speed manual transmissions was available, with three available rear-end ratios including 3.70:1, 4.11:1 and 4.56:1. Equipped with a matching-numbers, fuel-injected 283/290 HP V-8 engine and T10 4-speed manual transmission, this 1958 Chevrolet Corvette marks the pinnacle of first-generation Corvette performance. One of only 157 Corvettes produced in Inca Silver paint with Signet Red interior upholstery and a black soft top, this stunning, top-specification 1958 Corvette was previously part of Corvette expert Larry Gerig’s collection of 1958 Fuelie Corvettes, which included one of every color produced. Desirable features also include the off-road exhaust system, Wonderbar signal-seeking radio, windshield washers, a heater and a set of proper steel wheels mounting hubcaps and 6.70x15 whitewall tires. Most all factory-correct type components are in place, including the spare, jack, jack tools, trunk mat, trunk liner, rebound straps, spiral shocks, seatbelts, washer system, shifter, shielding, air cleaner, generator, distributor, spark plug shields, hoses, hose clamps, window glass, valve covers, fuel-injection unit, fuel-injection fuel filter, oil cap, radiator cap, gas cap, guide Y-50 mirror, washboard hood, trunk irons and T3 headlights. Honors and accolades are predictably numerous, including Bloomington Gold Certification on two occasions, first in 2009 with a score of 99.4% and again in 2015 with a score of 99.5%. The Corvette is also a multiple NCRS Top Flight Award winner, including a judging score of 99.7% in 2009, followed up in 2015 with a score of 99.9% and a regional award with a score of 97.8%. NCRS Performance Verification and Duntov Mark of Excellence awards were garnered in 2016. Documentation includes an NCRS Confirmation of Existence of Judging Awards, NCRS certificates and judging sheets, Bloomington Gold certificates and judging sheets, and restoration receipts issued by Tim Mickey’s Car Barn, all contained inside three large binders. Other items include an owner’s manual, a sales brochure and a gray, custom-fit car cover. Marking the high point of early Corvette performance, this highly equipped and decorated example is ready to collect, show and enjoy.